Submariner 1680 advice

Posts
493
Likes
729
Once we have noted that, the good configuration for a white 1680 is mk1 or mk3, homogeneous patina with box and papers. And there, it's rarely 16k... Supply and demand... As for the red sub, you have to be careful because many dials have been changed. It is necessary to check the match with the serial number.
I don’t mind getting papers, I think most of them are fake for this period, but maybe I’m wrong
 
Posts
27
Likes
52
There's no set period for the dials. A Mk1, Mk2, or Mk3 could be from 1978, 1977, or 1979, without distinction. Mk2s have the Rolex "L" offset to the left. As for laser charging, if it's done well, why not, but is it the same steel used for the original model? 🤷‍♂️
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
There's no set period for the dials. A Mk1, Mk2, or Mk3 could be from 1978, 1977, or 1979, without distinction. Mk2s have the Rolex "L" offset to the left. As for laser charging, if it's done well, why not, but is it the same steel used for the original model? 🤷‍♂️
Thanks a lot.
Regarding MK dial version, I guess it it the same with 5513 ?
Regarding laser welding, for the one I know, he uses the correct steel regarding period of the watch. But we never know if it has been done or not, if it is the correct steel or not !
 
Posts
27
Likes
52
(Obviously, everything we share about the 1680 also assumes that the insert is an original mk3 and not a service insert, which considerably changes the price when you see the cost of a nice 2k/3k insert)
 
Posts
36
Likes
183
Thanks a lot.
Regarding MK dial version, I guess it it the same with 5513 ?
Regarding laser welding, for the one I know, he uses the correct steel regarding period of the watch. But we never know if it has been done or not, if it is the correct steel or not !
Laser welding is usually pretty easy to spot although some are getting better at masking it.

Same process applies as with re-painted dials. Start by asking "is it too good to be true?" and follow that up with comparing to known correct comparable examples.

Rolex market has been going down for quite a while now and since there's such a large supply, it becomes very sensitive to a drop in demand.

My experience is that people are "desperately" trying to re-fetch what they spent, both private sellers and dealers that probably are selling on commission with high expectations from the seller.

That said, 1680 is one of the greatest references out there imo, regardless of brand. Just be cautious and patient not to overpay.
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
Hi all,
Regarding plexiglass, how to check if it is a correct one ? And does it count ?
Because when having a look at 5513, some have a flat one, other a “box”, and some other a dome.
Is it the same for 1680 ?
Thanks
 
Posts
588
Likes
539
Hi all,
Regarding plexiglass, how to check if it is a correct one ? And does it count ?
Because when having a look at 5513, some have a flat one, other a “box”, and some other a dome.
Is it the same for 1680 ?
Thanks
The 1680 should have the stepped "top hat" crystal. The 5513 should have a domed crystal. Both are acrylic.
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
The 1680 should have the stepped "top hat" crystal. The 5513 should have a domed crystal. Both are acrylic.
Thanks.
So, a dome crystal should be as much “dome” as this one ?

 
Posts
588
Likes
539
Thanks.
So, a dome crystal should be as much “dome” as this one ?

Yes. One of the many reasons of why I like these vintage subs more than their modern counterparts.
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
Yes. One of the many reasons of why I like these vintage subs more than their modern counterparts.
I agree with you !
So for exemple, this one is not the correct crystal ?
 
Posts
2,054
Likes
15,008
Another option, this 1680 for 11k€.
White the bezel is not in good shape, it seems original. Case and crown guard are scratched but with a lot of materiel from my point of view.
Patina on the dial is light, would it be a better option ? Or is the bezel too damaged ?
These 580 end links are fake.
 
Posts
2,054
Likes
15,008
The 580 endlinks are aftermarket (aka fake), you can tell from the graphics / lettering of the numbers.

It's not a big issue, you can buy an original couple for around 500 euro, but I would do my due diligence on every other part of the watch.
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
That’s the point… he is a professional seller, and if they are fake, some other parts may be as well
 
Posts
2,190
Likes
6,836
Not surprising at all, this forum is littered with dealer misinformation and/or unethical practices. This is why you always buy the seller. I usually stay away from dealers for this very reason.
 
Posts
6,256
Likes
9,814
he is a professional seller,
That says not too much
 
Posts
493
Likes
729
That says not too much
I want to think seller is not aware of that. I guess most people cant see this kind of detail
 
Posts
2,190
Likes
6,836
I want to think seller is not aware of that. I guess most people cant see this kind of detail
I beg to differ, that's very easy to spot....sorry.
 
Posts
6,256
Likes
9,814
. I guess most people cant see this kind of detail
Well: if you pretend to be a professional…